ESPN predictions for Reds, Billy Hamilton

Reds baserunner Billy Hamilton slides safely into second base with a steal as the ball gets away from the Mariners' Brad Miller during a spring training game.(Photo: The Enquirer/Gary Landers)

ESPN baseball experts expect big things from Billy Hamilton. Most of them do not expect the Reds to win the National League Central.

Of the 44 asked to predict a champ in the NL Central, Pedro Gomez was the only one to pick the Reds. Nine of the 44 picked the Reds to win a Wild Card.

ESPN's forecast panel predicted Reds outfielder Billy Hamilton will win National League Rookie of the Year honors. The same panel has first baseman Joey Votto tied for second with the Dodgers' Hanley Ramirez (trailing the Nationals' Bryce Harper) in the prediction for who will win the NL MVP award.

ESPN Major League Baseball analyst Tim Kurkjian predicted on SportsCenter on Sunday morning that Hamilton will steal 100 bases this season, way over the 63.5 over/under Vegas set.